American Studies is an interdisciplinary major that enables students to explore the complex interactions of peoples, cultures, social structures, and political institutions that have shaped the experiences of those living in the United States. Students are introduced to canonical and non-canonical literatures, to historical studies, and to main currents in historical and contemporary cultural production, as well as to questions of the relationship of the United States to the rest of the world.
“I will never understand why everyone wouldn’t want to major in American Studies. As an interdisciplinary major, it brings together everything that is great about a liberal arts college such as Colby.”
- Gordon Lessersohn ’12
For more student testimonials, click here.
For the major in African-American/American studies, see the requirements listed under “African-American Studies.”
Honors Program: Students majoring in American studies may apply during their junior year for admission to the honors program. Permission is required; guidelines are established by the department. Successful completion of the work of the honors project, and of the major, will enable the student to graduate “With Honors in American Studies.” Click here to view a list of past honors thesis topics.
For the Major requirements, and a list of guidelines for thesis writers, click here.